KEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT HEADED TO STATE THINK TANK SESSION AS DISTRICT NOMINATED SUNSHINE STATE SCHOLAR

KEY WEST, Fla. – District officials chose Melody Morales Rojas to go to “a ‘Think Tank’ on tough Florida challenges”, as the keys schools nominee. Ms. Morales, an 11th grader at Key West High School will attend the 2018 Sunshine State Scholars program next month.

The program allows for students who excel in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math to share their ideas on issues pressing to the state. State officials said the Commissioner of Education will honor each scholar for their exceptional academic accomplishments.

Students nominated are expected to have an interest in pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities in Florida, maintain a 3.9 weighted grade point average, and have a strong commitment to community service. Ms. Morales Rojas, ranked third in her class, said she is passionate about access to oral hygiene. “My goal is to be able to create and improve upon existing technology that prevents/treats dental issues like cavities and decay. It’s not too hard to gain access to tests and technology in the United States to check your mouth but my intention is to take it to other places that aren’t as fortunate.”

Ms. Morales Rojas, who spends time interning on the weekends as an orthodontic assistant continued, she would like to achieve her goal by obtaining engineering and medical degrees. “I hope to come up with a cheaper way to carry out the functions of these innovations that way it can easily be shared with lesser developed countries and explained to other doctors for the good of their communities.”

KWHS College & Career Counselor Lydia Estenoz stated Ms. Morales Rojas’ independence and self-determination has also aided in her academic success. “This intelligent and outgoing young lady is focused on learning and has a future path planned out that includes college, followed by traveling to other countries to utilize her dentistry skills for those in need. Melody is self-driven and she seeks out enrichment opportunities that connect to her passions and bolster her future goals.”

Superintendent Mark Porter noted, Ms. Morales Rojas seems to be more than aware of the responsibilities that come with her goals. “Melody’s grades and achievements speak for themselves. In fields like science and technology it is important to understand and master the material at hand in order to contribute meaningful ideas. Melody has excelled academically in this way, but has also found a way to serve her community.

Nominated Sunshine State Scholars are scheduled to attend the conference on May 17-18 in Orlando, Florida. For more information about the Florida Department of Education event, go to www.fldoe.org/academics/sunscholars.

Photo ID: Monroe County School District’s Sunshine State Scholar Melody Morales (right) receives her nomination from Key West High School Principal Amber Acevedo. Ms. Morales Rojas will go to Orlando in May to be a part of a statewide science discussion with her peers.

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